Charcoal Pit

I visited Charcoal Pit a couple times already and I very much enjoyed both visits. I was recommended to come here from a coworker and at that point I was looking for something different on a Lenten Friday. I happened to notice that they have a crab cake sandwich so for a change of pace I gave Charcoal Pit a try. This diner has a bit of history to it, running for several decades and does its best to preserve as much of the retro 50's/60's vibe as possible. Thematically this is one of the better diners I've been to; many of the booths have jukeboxes, some of the original windows are still present and you can be seated right up at the counter overlooking the ice cream stations. If you are in a hurry and just want some ice cream, they do have a separate counter separate from the dining area for that. I haven't used that yet but if you're just looking for ice cream that would be a useful option. This is good as both times I've visited the Charcoal Pit, while not busy, certainly gets good business. As mentioned, for my first visit there I had the crabcake sandwich. It was decently favorable and done well. The fries were just right for me; just enough crisp and where nice and fresh. And as a plus the fries were not oversalted. They use some very good buns and they do toast them a bit and they hold up well to what they load on their sandwiches. I also had a sundae for my first visit. Chocolate ice cream with hot fudge. It is pricey if you're used to fast-food ice cream but that two-scoop sundae is pretty big and very generous with the toppings. The ice cream they use is very good and they do have some rotating flavors on their menu as well. My only critique is that maybe not to hot fudge and chocolate together as the chocolate ice cream is a tad rich for the fudge. Then for my second visit, I tried the Pit Special. This is their basic burger and comes in both a 4 oz and (if I recall) an 8 oz patty and your choice of cheese if you like cheese on your burger. I had the 8 oz patty with cheddar. Again, the buns were prepared perfectly and that was probably one of the best burger patties I've had. It was cooked just right and just enough flavoring. The only thing to note is that if you order cheddar, it will likely be shredded and not in a slice. Next time I go, I will definitely try it with Provolone. The price is awesome as well so it's a great value for a diner burger. They definitely also have the other diner usuals as well including open-faced sandwiches, chili and so on so there's plenty to choose from. The service on both visits was excellent as well. The servers were attentive and ensured my glass was filled and my order taken care of in a timely fashion. They also happily answered any questions I had on the menu items as well. If you like an old-time styled diner with some history as well as some very good burgers, definitely give Charcoal Pit a visit.

Fun, chill diner that’s perfect for a burger and shake. The coffee (espresso chip?) milkshake is divine. Many booths have a jukebox - the music was pretty low so we could never confirm if our songs made it on air, but it’s a cute touch. A shout out to the waitstaff ensuring that our order could accommodate our gluten-free party member. Even though they are not completely gluten-safe, the burgers and grill are on a separate area than the buns, so they made sure to not give them a bun.

What a gem! We had a burger and a crab cake and the word that comes to mind is “divine”. The restaurant was clean, service was friendly and fast, and prices were reasonable! If we weren’t so full, I would have loved to have tried a milkshake, they look like a work of art!

I love an old time diner experience and that's exactly what this was. Mini jukeboxes in every booth. Service was friendly and fast. I think the desserts are the highlight! Nice selection of sundaes but I ordered a milkshake of the month and it was so good! Also loved the onion rings!

Milkshakes are bomb.. soooo rich and thick. Specialty Burger (1/4 lbs) are juicy and good. Coleslaw is of old style sweet kind, the way I like it (might not be for everyone)

Very bland fries, very low effort food . My cheesesteak was half of the size I thought it would have been for 14 bucks. I asked for extra cheese and onions. They give a soggy mess, that is falling apart when I pick it up. Disaster overall. Service was good and the place looks nice enough but the food is awful. Onion rings still had batter on them and were raw.

Charcoal Pit is a retro-style diner and burger joint that’s all about nostalgia, comfort food, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Walking in, you're greeted with chrome accents, red vinyl booths, and vintage décor that gives off a classic 1950s feel. The menu is simple and straightforward—burgers, hot dogs, milkshakes, and diner-style platters—but it’s all done with consistency and heart. I ordered the Pit Special Burger, which came with bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and their signature sauce on a toasted bun. The burger was juicy and flavorful, the bun held up well, and the sauce added a nice tang. My side of onion rings was crispy and well-seasoned, not greasy like some places. My dining companion went for the turkey club, which was stacked high and served with a big pile of fries. Of course, we had to get milkshakes—the chocolate was thick, creamy, and came topped with whipped cream and a cherry, just as it should. Service was fast and friendly, with plenty of refills and check-ins. Prices are affordable, and the vibe is relaxed and welcoming. Charcoal Pit isn’t fancy, but that’s the point. It’s dependable, old-school, and a great place when you're in the mood for a casual bite with a side of nostalgia.

This is the perfect place for me to have a rare treat: black and blue burger with bacon, onion rings, and a vanilla malted milkshake. All of it was awesome including the service. The really satisfying!

Very nice to see someone bring this place back to life! Food/service everything was great

a concord pike classic if you've never attempted to eat "the kitchen sink", then you've never been to delaware. spread my ashes here when i'm gone!

Catching up on Yelp reviews as I visited here back in June. The Charcoal Pit is rated as one of the best burgers in Delaware and is one of Joe Biden's favorite spots. My buddy and I drove from Baltimore to Philadelphia and decided to stop for lunch on a Monday. So there was no wait. The place is off a busy road, but there is a decent size parking lot. Ambiance is a classic diner and has a pretty big space. I ordered the Cheeseburger Deluxe, which came with fries, and a vanilla milkshake. Bun was soft, but it didn't hold well together and it didn't have much flavor. I wished that they toasted it. I am not a fan of charbroiled burgers and this one came off a tad dry. It was a good portion size though. Toppings were good and super fresh. LTO were all crispy and is where the burger shined. Fries were super crispy and almost better than the burger. Sweet relish and mustard were good. Vanilla milkshake was good. I see why it's rated the best burger in Delaware, but nowhere near one of the best burgers I have ever had. Bun: 6 Burger: 5 Toppings: 8 Overall: 6.33 Fries: 8 Overall, the Charcoal Pit was an old school diner and definitely worth a stop if you are in the area. Not the best food, but it was solid. Prices were cheap and it had friendly service.

Tried a pick up order while in town. We ordered a couple of burgers, fries, onion rings, a chicken finger meal, and some shakes. Best part for me were the shakes. Texture and taste was just as I liked and expected. Service was ok. We never got the onion rings. Called them about it and was told that the onion rings were in the bag. Was definitely on the receipt I paid for but physically never in the bag. That whole conversation was a bit of a turn off. Might consider stopping by again if near the place. But would definitely think twice after the onion ring issue.

Stopped in and grabbed a PB Shake To-Go, delicious as always and came out very quickly! The perfect sweet treat

We were super pleasantly surprised when we went to charcoal pit. I'm not sure what the negative reviews are about regarding service or cleanliness. Maybe there was a recent renovation - our experience was very positive and the service couldn't have been better. We both got burgers they came with fries and they were really good. Next time we'll try the ice cream which seemed popular, but we were stuffed with what we got.

Very busy as I didnt account for a school holiday. Since I came alone I was seated at the counter where I waited for some time for someone to acknowledge me. No one was assigned to the counter until I am assuming a manager asked a waitress to cover it While the food was very good - I ordered the black and white milkshake and pretzel cheese burger (super sloppy). The coleslaw I wanted never came. The milkshake arrived well after I started eating. I was never given napkins - another diner gave me some of her's & condiments- the manager got it for me. I sat again with my bill and payment ready. Again not acknowledged. I'm guessing ghosted by my waitress. 15 mins after I alerted my waitress that I wanted to pay my bill. She gave another diner their bill and ignored me. Finally took my bill no thank u sign this and keep the copy. Not sure what to think. But wow!

Thanks to Joe Biden's recent social media activity I was influenced into stopping in for a shake The shakes here are some of the best in the game. Normally at places like 5 guys, Red Robin, or chick fila (yes, I am naming names) - I have to ration my milkshake or I run out of my shake halfway through my meal. This has never been an issue at charcoal pit, the shakes are like 30 ounces and I need the help of my date to suck one down. For $6, my meal revolves around the shake The 8 oz pit special always hits the spot and is the perfect accompaniment to a milkshake I'm kind of bummed that the jukeboxes at each table are no longer operational but I understand that it's impossible to justify servicing these old things in this day and age. I'm just glad they haven't scrapped them Service here is pleasant and there is still that distinct diner charm that overwhelms me when I drive by their neon sign at night. Charcoal Pit is an institution and a treasure Be sure to stop in!

My husband and I visited Wilmington last Saturday and stopped at Charcoal Pit for a burgers and fries lunch. I had read that it is one of Joe Biden's favorite Wilmington restaurants and that it has been around since 1956, so I had to try it for myself. It's charmingly old school - old signage (although the neon sign on the building wasn't on), old diner architecture and decor, and nods to the past (mini tabletop jukeboxes that no longer work). And I thought the food was good - we both enjoyed our burgers and the fries. The issue for me was the service, sadly. Everyone entering waited a while to be acknowledged and seated, even though they weren't full (there just wasn't anyone there at the host stand). Then the service wasn't super friendly after that either (no welcome, just "how many?" and then just pointing at a table for us to sit at). But the food came fast and was pretty tasty! So if you're looking for a retro spot with some decent burgers, Charcoal Pit might hit the spot, but it wasn't a winner for me just due to the sort of prickly service.

It's been awhile since I visited Charcoal Pit and on my second visit I found it just as delightful as my first. They seated our seven member group at the booth by the front door with a beautiful mural painted on the wall behind it. There was a special menu with new items available so I tried one, the Reuben Dog. The two dogs on a hoagie roll with Swiss-cheese and sour kraut and dressing seemed awkward at first but it held together pretty good. Delicious! On a side note the waitress was wearing a mask. Our drinks were refilled, and the service was good. I hate to mention this, but I was disturbed a little when she lowered her mask to cough and then put it back on.

Very fast, attentive counter service for take out. I loved the Philly cheesesteak with Wiz and a side of fries. The black and white milkshake was to die for! It had a sweet, old fashioned aesthetic that is hard to find anymore! It's my first time visiting the area, and now I hope my job brings me back from time to time just to get this wonderful experience! This place is a real treat, literally and figuratively!

Step in this staple of Wilmington, DE and step back in time to the 1960's. And if you suggest anything like a remodel, expect to get ushered out. I am sure this place is exactly what the regulars expect on a daily basis. Don't be trying to change it. All the food here is going to be straight forward and just about what you would expect at a diner like this. And that's why you come here. We started with the mini corn dogs out of curiosity. Joan had the Caesar salad with chicken and I had a straight up 4 oz cheeseburger. Nothing complicated. Food was great (fries needed a little salt), but we didn't leave enough room for an ice cream desert or a root beer float done up old school like.

Their burgers are the best. Their fries are great too. I have lived in DE most of my life and no burger has ever compared. I would like to see them add extra pickles as a selection on DoorDash but that's my only complaint. I wouldn't order anything fancy and their apps aren't any big whoop. But the burgers, the fries, the shakes, sundaes, etc are top notch!

I've lived in Delaware for 50 years, close to the restaurant for half that time, but yesterday was my first time eating at The Charcoal Pit. I had a burger, onion rings, and a Oreo milkshake. The burger and the milkshake were quite good. I didn't care for the flavor of the onion rings. Not sure what type of oil they were using but the flavor overwhelmed the onion. Our experience with the kitchen staff was great. Unfortunately our server was terrible. She took our order and that was the last we saw of her until she took our payment. She didn't deliver the food, check to see how it was (our order was incorrect but the kitchen staff fixed it), or refill our drinks. She didn't smile once and aside of taking our order, didn't say a word. She put the check down, walked away, and didn't come back for it for about 10 minutes. While the food was good, the service was poor enough that I won't be going back.

As always, the BEST burger and fries! Everything about the Pit is so good and has been since I was a little girl. We especially love their shakes. The only problem we have is with a lady there that wears a head scarf. She has been mean and rude to us each time we go in. We recently went in to order to go and she wouldn't speak to us. We finally ordered and she tossed our receipt to us and walked away. We try to avoid her when we are there.

Food was good as usual, service HORRIBLE!!! Lady with a scarf did not acknowledge me or another customer that came behind me. When she finally went to wait on any of us she overlooked my daughter and I. I had to speak up to get service. She got my order wrong and purposely gave the other customer his food first! As much as I love their milkshakes and burgers.... I won't be back as long as she is there.

Just finished enjoying take out. Had a medium rare burger which was actually medium rare and lovely. I read a post from a previous customer that stated that they had a real medium rare burger there. Thanks!! My wife had grilled chicken and Italian wedding soup that pleased her quite well. We will visit again every time we are in Wilmington area!

We were driving down I-95 and hopped off looking for a place for lunch and came across the Charcoal Pit. We did takeout of a Tuna Salad sandwich and a Classic Burger. The tuna was fresh and there was enough for two sandwiches on it. My wife's burger was cooked medium rare, just as she asked (and too many places can't or won't get right) and she enjoyed it. The fries were very good and there were a lot in the bag.

Service was awesome! It was our first time since some updates the restaurant looks great! Charcoal pit always brings you back to your childhood.

I absolutely loved the physical restaurant. Genuine 1950s restaurant that still has that feel and is maintained fairly well. However, the food was a big let down. I also observed some bad hygiene practices by staff.

The Charcoal pit is my favorite place for burgers and fries. They have great ice cream sundaes too!

Decided to try this local place with a friend who was in town. Walking towards the door, I smelled the delicious scent of burgers, immediately inside, I smelled cleaning products. I decided to stay anyway even though I usually high tail out. The service was adequate, the Ruben was good although waaaay too salty, the summit burger with onion rings was fabulous! Would I go back? Yes. Would I recommend it? Yes because of the quirky ness, and the fact that it's local. I didn't have dessert ( the meal portions are large) but the description of the ice cream concoctions sound amazing enough that I'd give it a try.

We ate there tonight and had mixed emotions. I ordered the black and blue burger which was not very good. It was greasy, some of the bacon was over cooked and some under cooked and the blue cheese kind of emulsified on top of the burger patty. The worst part was, there were two shrimp tails on my plate and I didn't order anything with shrimp on it. Now, I have to say my husband did enjoy his pulled bbq pork sandwich, therefore,it wasn't a total loss but I don't see me going back.

Step into a little history and a whole lot of good food. Food, service and a roadside restaurant from 1956 makes for a great stop! Whether you're looking for good ole burger or a steak, you'll find it grilled to perfection at Charcoal Pit. Take a step back in time and checkout their photo wall. It's a piece of Americana hiding in plain view.

This a great 'Diner' stop, while doing some Tax Free Delaware shopping. I stopped for a burger, but decided on a Cheesesteak instead, it was yummy!! Of course, when I'm in this area, I opt for the Cheese Whiz.... It was very good, and the price is right... I was hoping to see Joe Biden, because other reviewers said he frequents this place. No luck today

Good good, good service, very clean table, seats, and silverware. Good value in overall. I'll come back.

Full disclosure: The Charcoal Pit was founded by my step-grandfather Marty Sloan and his brothers. I didn't know him very well as he died when I was about 9 and I grew up in Louisiana. The last time I stepped foot in the restaurant, I was about 8. So this was a chance for me to experience it 35 years later as an adult and on my own terms. I work remotely in Austin, TX for a company based in Baltimore. Since we were having an on-site, and I arrived early, I figured I'd take a day trip to Delaware for some tax free shopping and to see if the old restaurant was still good. The parking lot has seen better days, but it's serviceable. The restaurant shows its age like a well-earned patina. I ordered the fried clams, which were tender and enjoyable, not over-battered. I also had the double cheeseburger, which was flavorful and definitely tasted charcoal broiled. A solid burger, not nearly as greasy as some newer places. I also had a vanilla malt that was rich and satisfying. I couldn't finish it. :) The fact that the restaurant is still going to strong is a testament to the work and love the owners who took it over from my pop-pop put into it. While it was a bit of a nostalgia trip for me, I was also legit hungry and wanted a solid meal. I'm glad the old pit was still there to deliver. I'll be back next time I'm in Baltimore for work. -Geoff "Bear" Sloan

A solid local eatery that's a step back in time. Classic eats like burgers, fries and shakes in a time capsule hard to come by in today's modern world. Had the Kennet Square burger with fries and ate it all. The haddock fish sandwich is also solid as well as the chili dogs.

Are here as a late dinner before hitting the road back towards home. My wife got the pulled pork sandwich, and I got chicken strips and fries. The fries are a pretty large portion and we could have split it. The chicken was reasonably decent and not dried out. We thought about getting a shake because they looked really good, but we'll save that for next time we're in the area.

The milkshakes were awesome, Sally, there was no claw machine. Very disappointed of them not including elementary & middle school. The staff did not really care.

Solid take out option for burgers and a shakes. Confusing online ordering process so we just call in our order. Pit special with cheese offers a tasty burger and plenty of fries. Always consistent and on point. Chicken fingers seem a bit pricey, but family members always seem to enjoy them. We order with "double fries" which is way more fries than a single person could/should eat. Milkshakes are as expected, which is to say tasty.

Old fashioned diner that feels like a step back in time, with plenty to recommend it. Can't speak to seeing the President, and the sandwich was so-so but their ice cream shakes are legit! I got the chocolate shake, and that made me very happy - thick, delicious and enormous! Service was good too. Plenty of parking in back.

The flood was good, but when ordering online they gave us a wrong shake, missed an order of onion rings, and messed up the toppings on a couple of the burgers. Very nice staff

The food was awful. Super dry burgers. Service was awful. Fries were cold. Restaurant was kind dirty.

Trend has been downhill for quite a while. We're going less and less. Tonight, Soggy fries and raw burger. Ordering by phone is super tedious too.

Received the worst customer service of my life. Establishment decided to close more than 30 minutes early because "they weren't busy" so when I called to order an ice cream sundae, I was hung up on twice, yelled at by two different employees and one decided to treat me as though I was a personal acquaintance when he waved me off, walked away while I was was talking and cursed in my presence. The person that hung up on me said "you sounded like a kid on the phone." Wrong I'm a 40 plus year old woman that has supported this establishment for more than 25 years. Sadly, I will not be returning or recommending this establishment going forward.

I've probably driven past here many times when I used to live in the area and never went in. Recently I heard the morning radio talk show hosts talking about Charcoal Pit, and how it had been voted Best Burger in Delaware in a 2021 Food and Wine article. They also told stories about how Joe Biden has been visiting since his high school days, and still does. Given I would be in the area I had to try it, and I am glad I did. When you first walk in, it looks like a run of the mill diner, maybe even a bit more run down than your average one. Its ok, just wait till you food arrives. Its good, really good. I had the Summit Burger. It was big, fresh, and I ate every bite. The chocolate milkshake I washed it down was a classic and hit the spot. The prices are here are very good, ranging from $7-12 for a burger and fries, depending on how big you want to go. If anything seems a little pricey on the menu, rest assured you will get a serving size worthy of the price tag. Check this place out. Eat well, and you just might see the President.

The food was really good, john and I both got burgers and they were really delicious. Crispy fries and onion rings. We felt like we were in a date in the 1950s. Our server was very sweet. I would definitely go back for a fun and nostalgic meal!

This place is dump. Its filthy. The food is marginal at best. It disgusts me that the owners are apparently resting on the laurels earned in the distant past.

A great local institution that everyone should visit at least once! Also. Make sure you get a milkshake or a soda float!

I got the Char Dog special. The hot Dogs and chili were great. The fries were a little salty but very tasty.

Trying to get in and out wasn't the best idea when it comes to a Saturday night. My daughter and I came in, for takeout. We only wanted milkshakes and ended up waiting 20 minutes... - - - - - More recently my bestie and I went for a late weeknight snack. The burgers were mediocre at best. The waitress completely forgot her soup. We didn't leave hungry but we weren't satisfied. At least it didn't cost an arm and a leg. The waitress was nice. Although, she focused more on her closing duties than helping her customers. Probably won't go back.

Very delicious ribs. Excellent service and a well fed family of 5 . Everyone left happy.

Our son was in town from California he wanted to go to the pit for his favorite hot dogs, well done fries, and milk shake. The place is being renovated, service was good and the food was excellent. A definite improvement. The place had a good crowd.

I LOVE Charcoal Pit! It is an authentic 1950s diner with personal juke boxes at the table (unfortunately they don't work anymore) and delicious milk shakes. They make their own pickled relish that is yummy with the cheese steaks. I grew up going here as a high school kid and brought my son and husband here for a meal on a recent drive to Philadelphia. They loved it too. Great family friendly neighborhood vibe. This place has stood the test of time for a reason!

This has been a landmark on 202 in Wilmington for decades. I can give it 4 stars based on the service primarily. The food was good diner quality and served hot and fast. It was clean and the ice cream dessert was tasty!

Charcoal pit is definitely one of those places that you already know what you're getting before you go. With that being said, I usually stick to their crab cake sandwich (which is surprisingly good) and the milkshakes. Today I decided to be adventurous and order a brownie sundae through door dash instead of the usual milkshake. For some reason, unlike every other restaurant they actually warmed up my brownie and put it in the styrofoam container with the ice cream and whipped cream on top so by the time it got to me it was a soupy mess. Not the biggest deal but it did ruin my dessert. Besides that, if you're ever in the mood for a good malt shake this is the place to go!

A Delaware staple. Between the burgers, fries, milkshakes, and the classic diner decor, stepping into Charcoal Pit always feels a bit like stepping back into time. You won't find anything too diverse on the menu outside of your typical burger and sundae pairings, so don't expect any vegan or dietary restrictions to be catered to. For the picky eaters or the health-conscious, your options may be limited, but for the rest of us - prepare to go all out with a hand dipped milkshake, a cheeseburger with the works, and a side of nachos or fries to top it all off. Or, if you're feeling particularly adventurous (and in need of a serious sugar rush), consider opting for The Kitchen Sink - featuring twenty scoops of ice cream, all the toppings, and of course a ton of whipped cream and cherries to finish the sundae off. Charcoal Pit may not be anything close to fine dining, but it is a Delaware institution, and if you're in the market for burgers and shakes, it manages to hit the spot.

This was a Highlander Sundae that I got tonight - what a major disappointment! It was served in a lg thin paper cup. What was supposed to be 4 scoops of vanilla icecream with "gobs" of hot fudge, banana spears and wet nuts was at most 3 skimpy scoops of vanilla icecream, a single tablespoon (if that) of hot fudge, 3 unripe thin round slices of banana and 2 nut pieces and a acant cloud of whipped cream and a cherry for $6.75... have always gone here in the past for late night cravings. NEVER AGAIN.